Leland Brown

I simply chose my majors because the professors in the department were my role models. I ultimately wanted to do what they did and I looked up to them. I also really love helping others and with the majors I have chosen I can possibly help others for the rest of my life.

What brought you to Bethel?

I originally came to Bethel on a football scholarship. I came because it seemed like a fit for athletics and the lifestyle I led!

What activities have you been involved in?

am a member of the Thresher Football team, Forensics team, Bethel College Concert Choir, Student Alumni Association and also actively participate in Theater. I am a Student Ambassador, Chaplain, and Tutor for the college also. I also am the president for Bethel’s Multicultural Student Union and Bethel’s chapter of FCA.

How are you different now from when you first arrived on campus?

I am different in many ways since I have arrived on Bethel’s Campus. Bethel has shaped me physically, mentally, and spiritually. Spiritually, Bethel has made me more of a God fearing Christian that loves all, treats others with respect, and serves others daily. Mentally, I have grown an abundance because I am much stronger intellectually. Growing up I wasn’t challenged as much in school and as a result I took education lightly. Bethel forced me to grow mentally and make my education one of my top priorities because that is the way it should be. Physically college has shaped me in great ways. I am different because I came to Bethel College weighing 280 lbs and people encouraged me daily to get fit and healthy. I took what others said into consideration and worked hard to achieve a goal of 190 lbs and I did it. Overall, Bethel has changed me quite a bit. I came here just a football player from Galveston, Texas and now I can say I am a singing, speaking, acting, teaching, tutoring, touring, Christian, intellectual "football" player!

What about Bethel gives you the most pride?

Bethel’s community as a whole gives me the most pride.

What has been your favorite course so far, and why?

My favorite course thus far at Bethel has to be Living In Performance with Dr. McCabe-Juhnke. Mainly, because a class with Dr. McCabe-Juhnke never has a dull moment. He is an enthusiastic, charismatic, bright soul that lights up a classroom like no other. He motivates his students to be the best they can at anything they do. So add something I love (acting) with a person of that nature and the formula for me is loads of fun and a great time!

Tell a quick story about a memorable moment from your Bethel days.

My most memorable story from my "Bethel days" has to be about Denise Krase, Gary Histand, Ami Reiger, Nathan Bartel, and John McCabe-Juhnke. My freshman year here was a scene straight from the movies. My roommate was expelled, my computer was stolen, I had no books, and came down with a sickness that caused my half of my face to stop working (Bell’s Palsy). During all of this these members of the faculty and Staff helped me like no other. They were genuine, caring, showed me what grace was all about, and most of all they were equitable. I truly owe my Freshman Year to them because they were my light at the end of the tunnel. These people are the reason my tragedy of a Freshman year was so memorable.

What does it mean to be a Thresher?

To me being a Thresher means growth. Being a Thresher is about giving your all and trying new things while continuing to grow into the mature adult you one day want to become. Being a Thresher is about serving others in order to grow. And at the end of the day being a Thresher means growing enough to one day meet our Lord and Savior.